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Out of 3,345 people who had contact with individuals with tuberculosis, only 50 developed an active infection within two years of exposure, Swiss researchers reported at the European Respiratory Society meeting. Of these active TB cases, 31 involved people whose exposure happened through family members. "It's not new but we have confirmed the old wisdom that TB transmission is in the family circle," researcher Dr. Jean-Pierre Zellweger said.

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HHS has released Middle East Respiratory Syndrome guidance for the participants in its Hospital Preparedness Program. The CDC and HHS are continuously monitoring MERS infection in the country since the virus has infected people in eight countries since April last year.

Tes Pha, a woman whose face and body were scarred in a 1996 acid attack in Cambodia, is recovering and has regained some vision after a cornea transplant. Ophthalmologist Kevin Winkle of Alaska performed the procedure. Many people whose vision is lost in acid attacks have too much scarring to be good candidates for corneal transplants, but Pha appeared to have enough stem cells to warrant the attempt. Despite worrying signs during the procedure, the cornea appears to have attached.

CMS has posted online answers to frequently asked questions from physicians about billing for new CPT codes for transitional care management services. The AAFP also has a frequently-asked-questions document and has created a 30-day TCM worksheet to help physicians track information in patient care summaries.

French designers are in discussions with airlines about adding casino gambling to aircraft. The proposed lounge includes a blackjack table, seating and a bar. "The Casino Jet Lounge isn't just a bar or entertainment idea. We see it as a social space," said Jean-Pierre Alfano of AirJet Designs.

Reauthorization of PEPFAR funding through the Lantos/Hyde United States Leadership Against AIDS, TB and Malaria Reauthorization Act is essential to continue the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis, this editorial in the Houston Chronicle says. The continued fight against drug-resistant tuberculosis that crosses borders is more important than ever.